Different Types of Ribosomes Found in Cells

Ribosomes are important parts of cells. They help make proteins by turning genetic instructions into actual proteins. There are different types of ribosomes in two main kinds of cells: prokaryotic and eukaryotic.

1. Prokaryotic Ribosomes:

• Size: Prokaryotic ribosomes are smaller, called 70S. They have two parts: a larger part (50S) and a smaller part (30S).
• Location: These ribosomes float around freely in the liquid part of the cell, known as the cytoplasm.
• Composition: They are made of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and proteins. Specifically, they contain 21 proteins and 3 rRNA pieces.

2. Eukaryotic Ribosomes:

• Size: Eukaryotic ribosomes are bigger, measuring 80S. They have a larger part (60S) and a smaller part (40S).
• Location: You can find them in two main places:
  • Free Ribosomes: These float freely in the cytoplasm and make proteins for use inside the cell.
  • Bound Ribosomes: These are attached to a structure called the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and make proteins that are either sent out of the cell or used in the cell’s membranes.

3. Mitochondrial and Chloroplast Ribosomes:

• Size: These ribosomes are similar in size to prokaryotic ribosomes and also measure 70S.
• Function: They help make proteins that are needed for the functions of mitochondria and chloroplasts, which are important for energy production and photosynthesis, respectively.

Summary

To sum it up, ribosomes are key players in making proteins, with notable differences in size and location between prokaryotic (70S) and eukaryotic (80S) cells. Knowing about these types of ribosomes helps us better understand how cells work and how living things express their functions.